Photo: David McGregor
Johnathan Carter watches closely as model trains drive past him at the Southeastern Railway Museum in Duluth. Santa will arrive via train at the Duluth museum Saturday.

While a sleigh pulled by eight tiny reindeer might be his preferred mode of transportation on Christmas, it isn't the only way Santa travels.

The jolly old elf himself will be chugging into Gwinnett this weekend aboard a train bound for the Southeastern Railway Museum.

Along with enjoying Santa's arrival, Gwinnett families are invited to deck the halls of the museum with handmade decorations.

Santa's arrival in Duluth ushers in a host of activities for children this weekend throughout Gwinnett.

The city of Norcross has planned a special day for kids to shine. From creating crafts to taking photos with Santa, even displays of trees decorated by local children and live music by kids for kids, the city will kick off the holiday season with a day-long celebration of kids, creativity and magic dubbed "Sparkle!"

The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and kids can create handmade ornaments to take home until 4 p.m. Parents can enjoy carriage rides, a holiday tour of homes and more in the downtown Norcross area. For more information on Sparkle!, visit www.aplacetoimagine.com.

Santa will be snacking on his favorite treat, cookies, at 1 p.m. Saturday in Braselton, where kids can join him at the community center next to the town's park. Tickets for the event are $15 and can be purchased at the Braselton Town Hall, 4982 Ga. Highway 53. For more information, call 706-654-3915.